Diplomacy still an option to resolve Iran nuclear issue: Rice

US ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice says there is still room to resolve issues regarding Iran's nuclear energy program through diplomatic channels.
“We believe there is still time and space for diplomacy," Rice told a UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Thursday.
She repeated Washington’s allegations against Tehran, saying, “However, the onus is on Iran to respond constructively.”
Rice also called for a "clear, united resolution" of the current standoff over Iran’s nuclear energy program.
The remarks come as Iran is in close talks and cooperation with the P5+1 - permanent members of the UNSC plus Germany - and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in an attempt to allay the West’s concerns over the country's nuclear energy program.
The United States, Israel and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.
Iran refutes the allegation and argues that as a signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and a member of the IAEA, it is entitled to develop and acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
ASH/SS